Bone infection: a clinical priority for clinicians, scientists and educators.

Area of Science:

• Orthopaedic Surgery
• Infectious Diseases
• Biomaterials Science

Background:

• Bone infection remains a significant challenge in orthopaedic-trauma surgery.
• Current treatments are often insufficient, regardless of perioperative management.
• Key challenges include diagnosis, debridement, and antimicrobial efficacy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the progress of the AO Trauma Clinical Priority Program on bone infection.
• To highlight areas for future intervention and research.
• To bridge the gap between basic science understanding and clinical application.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and synthesis of findings from the AO Trauma program.
• Analysis of biological factors influencing bone infection (biofilm, osteolysis, vascularization).
• Evaluation of current diagnostic, surgical, and antimicrobial strategies.

Main Results:

• Identified critical knowledge gaps in the underlying biology of bone infections.
• Highlighted the need for improved diagnostic tools and debridement techniques.
• Emphasized the necessity for more effective and targeted antimicrobial agents.

Conclusions:

• An improved understanding of bone infection's basic biology is essential for innovation.
• Enhanced clinical evidence, documentation, and outreach are crucial for translating research findings.
• Multidisciplinary collaboration is vital for advancing the management of bone infections.